ESPN commentator Jon Champion has been reprimanded by the FA Cup rights
holders after describing Luis Suarez as a ‘cheat’ following his
controversial hand-ball goal during Liverpool’s third round victory at
Mansfield on Sunday.

Talking point: Luis Suárez's second-half goal at Field Mill should have been disallowedPhoto: GETTY IMAGES

Suarez received widespread criticism following the incident, which saw the Uruguayan control the ball with his right hand before scoring past goalkeeper Alan Marriott.

The Liverpool forward’s actions prompted Champion to remark in commentary, "That, I'm afraid, is the work of a cheat."

Champion’s summariser, Chris Waddle, appeared to be taken aback by the comments and ESPN have now issued a statement to confirm that Champion has been spoken to about his observations.

The ESPN statement said: "We take our responsibility to deliver the highest standards of coverage to our viewers. ESPN’s editorial policy is for commentators to be unbiased and honest, to call things as they see them.

“Inevitably this can involve treading a fine line on occasion, especially in the heat of the moment. Comments during the Mansfield v Liverpool match caused offence where none was intended and we have spoken to our commentator about this incident.”